Name: Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490004H21M52S
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups dried bread crumbs, ground very fine; 3 tbsp cornmeal; 3 tbsp corn starch; 1 tbsp granulated onion (powder can work too); 1 1/2 tsp granulated garlic; 1 tsp finely ground black pepper; 1 1/2 tbsp fine salt; 1 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground dry thyme; 1 1/2 tsp ground dry oregano; About 3 lbs chicken pieces (one whole chicken cut into pieces or preferred cuts); Water (for wetting chicken pieces); Optional: Canola or peanut oil for drizzling/spritzing

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

There is nothing quite like the crispy, flavorful satisfaction of a perfectly baked chicken crusted with the right coating. This Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe takes that nostalgic taste and makes it even better by using simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand. It creates a crunchy, aromatic coating that seals in the juiciness of your chicken, delivering a crunchy golden crust that rivals store-bought mixes but without any preservatives or mystery flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a dependable and delicious chicken coating, this recipe will quickly become a kitchen staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Seven pieces of raw breaded chicken arranged on a sheet of parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each piece is covered in a light brown, grainy coating, with varying shapes and sizes showing the texture of the breading clearly. The pieces include thigh and drumstick cuts, evenly spaced with some crumbs scattered around them. The overall look is of uncooked, breaded chicken ready for frying or baking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in building layers of texture and flavor, from the crunchy breadcrumbs and cornmeal to the aromatic herbs and spices that elevate every bite.

Dried bread crumbs (3 cups, ground very fine): The foundation for that crispy crust, finely ground crumbs hold the seasoning well and provide a light crunch.
Cornmeal (3 tablespoons): Adds an extra dimension of crispiness and a subtle, nutty flavor.
Corn starch (3 tablespoons): Helps create a delicate, crunchy texture by absorbing moisture and preventing sogginess.
Granulated onion (1 tablespoon): Offers sweetness and depth; powder works too if that’s what you have.
Granulated garlic (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brings a savory warmth that complements chicken perfectly.
Finely ground black pepper (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle, peppery bite to balance the flavors.
Fine salt (1 1/2 tablespoons): Essential for seasoning and amplifying all the other spices.
Chili powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle kick and smokiness without overpowering.
Ground dry thyme (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb that lends an earthy, slightly minty note.
Ground dry oregano (1 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances the herbal profile with a robust aroma and flavor.

How to Make Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe

Step 1: Blend Your Coating Mix

Start by combining all your dry ingredients in a large bowl or, for an even finer consistency, pop them in a food processor or mixer. This ensures every spice is evenly distributed throughout the coating, giving you that consistent flavor punch with every bite.

Step 2: Store Your Coating Properly

Once mixed, transfer your Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe blend into an airtight container, such as a 1 quart mason jar. Keep it in a cool, dry spot until you’re ready to use it—this will maintain freshness and keep those flavors vibrant for weeks.

Step 3: Prep the Chicken Pieces

Use about 3 pounds of chicken, trimmed and cut into your favorite pieces, whether bone-in or boneless. Lightly wet each piece with water—this helps the coating stick perfectly. Drain excess water so the coating doesn’t become soggy but still clings beautifully.

Step 4: Coat and Shake

Drop a few chicken pieces into a plastic bag along with about half a cup of your coating mix—this amount mimics the packaging size you’d find in the store. Shake vigorously, pressing the coating onto each piece to ensure a full, even layer of delicious crunch.

Step 5: Arrange and Optional Oil Spritz

Place your coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure not to crowd the pieces. This spacing encourages crisping. For an extra-golden finish, spritz lightly with neutral oil like canola or peanut using a mist spray bottle. This step is optional but highly recommended for a richer color and crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your tray into a 375-degree oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Boneless breasts may cook faster—around 25 minutes. To be certain the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer aiming for an internal temperature between 175 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

After baking, let your chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes so the juices redistribute and the coating sets perfectly crispy. This final step makes a big difference in savoring that homemade crunch with juicy, tender meat.

How to Serve Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe

A white plate holds five pieces of golden brown fried chicken drumsticks and thighs, each with a crispy, crumb coating that looks crunchy and well-cooked; the chicken pieces are piled close together, showing rough textured breading with darker golden spots. Behind the plate, there is a blurry white rectangular plate filled with fresh green salad, featuring leafy greens and some orange bits. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, or a wedge of lemon brightens up your dish beautifully. These little touches not only enhance flavor but also add a pop of color that makes your homemade chicken that much more inviting.

Side Dishes

Classic comfort sides pair wonderfully with your crispy chicken. Think creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the coated chicken atop a bed of fragrant rice or alongside buttery corn on the cob for a rustic, family-friendly meal. Alternatively, slice pieces for a savory sandwich or wrap, layering in crisp lettuce and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for an irresistible lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover coated chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining its crisp texture as much as possible.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked coated chicken pieces by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment to prevent sticking. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. This method lets you enjoy homemade shake ‘n bake chicken anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

To revive the coating’s crispiness, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes rather than microwaving. This keeps the outer crust crunchy and the chicken juicy, preserving that fresh-from-the-oven feeling.

FAQs

Can I use this coating on other meats?

Absolutely! While this recipe is optimized for chicken, it works beautifully on pork chops, turkey pieces, or even fish for a deliciously crispy crust.

Can I make the coating gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Just keep the cornmeal and spices the same for a tasty gluten-free version.

Is it necessary to wet the chicken before coating?

Yes, lightly moistening the chicken ensures the coating sticks properly, creating that signature crispy layer. Just be sure to drain excess water to avoid sogginess.

Why add corn starch and cornmeal?

Corn starch helps absorb moisture creating a crisp crust, while cornmeal adds a unique crunch and subtle flavor that bread crumbs alone can’t provide. Together, they make this Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe so special.

Can I prepare the coating mix in advance?

Definitely! This mix stores well in an airtight jar for several weeks, making it super convenient to have on hand for quick dinners any night of the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a homemade chicken coating that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and utterly delicious, this Homemade Shake ‘n Bake Chicken Coating Recipe is your go-to. It transforms everyday chicken into a crispy, golden masterpiece that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try—you’ll never need store-bought again!